Families London Surrey Borders July/Aug 2018

FREE take me home

!

IN THIS ISSUE Plastic free July Tips to have a plastic free party What’s on in July & August

Unlock your child’s potential

with our expertly led singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 -18 year olds.

CHEAM & WORCESTER PARK 020 8773 4242

EPSOM 01737 669504

COULSDON & CATERHAM 0345 078 0805

SUTTON 01372 740284

CROYDON 0845 265 7083

SHIRLEY 020 8949 1116

Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.

Issue 81 July/August 2018 familiesonline.co.uk

Creative Courage For Life

familiesonline.co.uk Families London Surrey Borders

Mock Tests 11+11+Mock Tests

WALLINGTON SUTTONSchools Stage 1 style - Mock 11+ Stage 2 Sutton Orpington/Kent CEM Selective Eligibility Test Selective Eligibility Test Tests& Stage Selective Eligibility Grammar Schools (SET) & Stage 2 Test Mock Bexley Tests (SET) 2 Dates: Tue 24 July (Summer) 11/4/15 – Sat. am 28/3/15 Saturday

31/3/15Wed – Tue. Sch. hols Dates: 18/2/15 Dates: Half Term Dates: Sat 11 Aug (Summer) 26/5/15 - Tue. Half term 01/4/15 Wed Easter Hols Sat 25 Aug (Summer) 04/7/15 – Sat . amTerm 27/5/15 Wed Half

Where: Hurst Community Where: Wallington Centre, Hurst Place,SM6 Hurst Rd, Where: The Centre, Milton Rd, Bexley DA5 3LH Wallington SM6 for 9RP See the1.30pm website full address.

Time: – 3.45pm

Where: Crofton Halls, Sutton Orpington SM3 or Where: Road, Crofton SM6 Where: Sutton Life Centre, 24 BR6 8PRWallington Alcorn Close, Sutton 9PX See the website for fullSM3 address.

Time: 9.30am - 1pm

Dates: 30/3/15Fri – Mon. pm Dates: 20/2/15 Half Term Sat 16 Aug 29/5/15 Fri Half am Term 30/5/15 – (Summer) Sat.

Fee: £22.50 per paper including detailed Fee: From £25 paper including detailed feedback & Fee: From £45 forper 2 papers and feedback and online software FREE online tests.*to practise. access to all questions.

BOOK NOW

www.mocktestmasters.com FEEDBACK includes ü Ranked table results ✔ Detailed report onof your child’s ü Your✔child’s strength and weaknesses report Strengths & weaknesses üAccess mocktest test questions questions &&answers ✔Access totomock answers papers returned, if applicable ✔üAnswer Your child’s answer papers returned

11+ Holiday Club An established holiday club specialising in 11+ success with 11+ tutors present daily. For students serious about getting into a grammar school. Daily 11+ tuition, revision and practice sessions.

Where: 11plus University Centre, 315 Croydon Road, Wallington SM6 7LB When: Monday 30th July to Friday 17th August 2018 from 9.00am to 3.30pm daily. Book for 1, 2 or 3 weeks.

To book: www.holidaylearningclub.com I 0208 064 1011

The Lotus Practice Now offering baby massage and yoga!

ü Cranio-sacral therapy ü Baby Massage Courses ü Baby Yoga Courses Baby massage is relaxing and enjoyable for both mum and babies, supporting bonding between you and your baby with quality time that’s fun.

) 07956442223 : thelotus@hotmail.co.uk 8 www.thelotuspractice.com 2 Families London Surrey Borders

familiesonline.co.uk

News & Reviews London Surrey Borders Tel: 01923 239 664 Editor Tamar Pearson editor@families-LSB.co.uk Design Rebecca Carr Printer Print Mates

Mischief Makers – the 2018 Summer Reading Challenge

21,000 copies printed 42,000 readers per issue Next issue September/October 2018 Booking deadline 8 August 2018

Editor’s note Summer is here and with that comes the sunshine and endless hours of fun. This issue we have some fantastic days out for all the family, competitions to family attractions like Poulton’s Park and ZSL London Zoo. It is also Plastic Free July – we dare you to take the challenge and go Plastic Free.

Tamar xx

Families London Surrey Borders is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families London Surrey Borders are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families London Surrey Borders. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families London Surrey Borders; our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

Children’s reading can ‘dip’ during the summer holidays if they don’t have regular access to books and encouragement to read for pleasure.

The annual Summer Reading Challenge helps get three quarters of a million children into libraries each year to maintain their reading skills and confidence. 2018 will be the 20th challenge. It’s open to primary school children at every ability.

This year the challenge will focus on the theme of mischief and pranks, as inspired by the much-loved Beano comic, which celebrates its 80th anniversary next year.

Children are challenged to read at least six library books over the school holidays and collect incentives, such as stickers, to earn their final challenge certificate and medal.

Surprise baby at ZSL London Zoo Last autumn ZSL London Zoo welcomed Tobi, a male tamandua as a partner for their resident female, Ria. They were overjoyed when just five months later they spotted a tiny baby clinging to Ria’s back, making newcomer Tobi a very fast mover - when keepers did the maths they discovered that Ria must have fallen pregnant the same week they met.

“We were confident Ria was pregnant as she’d just started to put on some weight, but we weren’t expecting to welcome a new member of the family quite so soon. They must have got together pretty much on their very first date – Tobi clearly pulled out all the stops!”, said ZSL keeper Steve Goodwin See if you can spot baby Poco at your next visit to the ZSL London Zoo. To book tickets or find out more visit www.zsl.org 55x70_alison.qxp_Layout 9 25/08/2016 10:52 Pa

Children can choose, recommend and review books at the Book Sorter on the Challenge website. This is the largest database of children’s peer-peer reading recommendations. www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk

For classes of pure MADness, join MAD Academy

Birthday Parties Too!

Babies from 3 months action songs and sensory stimulation Walkers to 2 years music, movement and motor development 2 to 4 years dance, musicality and beat competency

Classes in Croydon & surrounding areas Call Alison on 020 8407 1726 or email: alison.storey@madacademy.com

madacademy.com Music And Dance and a whole lot of fun!

BRIT Kids

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At BRIT Kids, what do we do? ...More than you can imagine!

Saturday Courses at The BRIT School

Theatre

Performing and Creative Arts classes for 8–18 year olds

Dance

Fashion and Textiles

Singing

Film Making

Song Writing Street Dance

Music Production

Photography

Radio

brit.croydon.sch.uk/BRITKids

Art Club Design, Print & Illustration Computer Club AEN

in collaboration with Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy

020 8665 5242

Families London Surrey Borders 3

#SpotTheBox Reigate & Banstead Borough Council have taken a great approach to get families and children off the digital devices and looking up into the fauna and flora of Earlswood Common, by installing a new and fascinating bird box trail.

The bird box trail comprises of 23 eye-catching nest boxes, all created by local artists. Some of which have already been claimed by Great Tits, Blue Tits and Robins. Even some cheeky members of the local bat population have already taken advantage of the new homes as roosts.

Eat2Treat lunchboxes now ready for pre-order – in time for the Autumn term Eat2Treat founder, and local Mum, Rachel Slinger is seeing the reward to all her effort come into a reality, as her new and exciting, incentivised lunch box design is now ready to pre-order – just in time to make sure children will have a heathy packed lunch to take to school as they return in September.

The lunchboxes are sectioned for variety and portion control, with a ‘secret’ bottom layer containing the ‘treats’ which is only revealed once the first layer in finished. The treat can also be a non-food related reward, with the incentives packs. When a child eats the healthy food tray they collect stars and place these on the lid of the lunchbox, which doubles up as a reward chart. There are reward magnets, so the child knows what reward they are working towards.

Nesting season runs until August, so take a moment to put those devices down and explore the natural landscapes around you. How many can you spot?

Share your favourite pictures on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook using hashtags #LookUp and #SpotTheBox

Celebrate Play on Playday UK! Playday is the national day for play in the UK and will take place this year on Wednesday 1 August.

Playday is an annual celebration of children’s play with thousands of children and families playing outside at events across the UK. It is an opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of children’s play and the need for quality play opportunities every day of the year.

From small-scale community events to thousands of children taking part in events organised in parks and open spaces – Playday is celebrated by each community in a way that suits them.

As well as a celebration of children’s right to play, Playday is a campaign that highlights the importance of play in children’s lives.

You can hold your own Playday event or find one close to you by visiting www.playday.org.uk

The joys of baby swimming

Ready to pre-order at www.eat2treat.co.uk

Speech & Drama Classes LAMDA training for all ages After-School and Weekend Sessions Group and Private Tuition Available For further information please call or email:

07947 545 309 020 3620 2866 jenna@curtainupdrama.co.uk www.curtainupdrama.co.uk 54 Orchard Road, Sanderstead, 4, Carlton Road, South Croydon, Surrey, CR20BP 9LU South Croydon, CR2

The joys of baby swimming go beyond the first classes and can lead to a lifelong love of swimming. Waterlife Swim School run small classes in warm pools with enthusiastic, fully qualified, “in water” instructors, guiding you through a structured and progressive programme from your child’s initial submersion to swimming small distances between parent and instructor.

For the most rewarding activity in which your baby can fully participate and for an investment in their future health and safety Waterlife believes swimming is a must!

They hold lessons 6 days a week across SW London & Surrey in small warm private pools. Terms are 12 weeks long, lessons 30 minutes in duration, costing £160.00. Life with baby can never be predictable so Waterlife also offer 3 catch up classes per term, subject to availability.

Each class is packed with activities and songs with the emphasis on swimming and water safety.

From their very first lesson babies are encouraged to hold on at poolside, keeping their heads above water. With improved strength & ability they are taught to turn around underwater, float, safely enter & exit the pool. The fabulous, experienced instructors at Waterlife have remained with them for years, building strong relationships with their regular swimmers. All are fully trained, insured and CRB checked.

For more information, or to book for the autumn term please visit www.waterlifeswimschool.com

Decide whether to change career Return to work after a break Make your CV stand out Feel more confident in interviews Career coaching takes place in Banstead or by Skype fay@brightskyhr.com - www.brightskyhr.com 4 Families London Surrey Borders

R Y U DA YO TO K O IAL BO TR EE

Helping you to:

FR

FAY WALLIS - CAREER COACH - BRIGHT SKY HR

Fun play based social skill activities; speaking and listening, managing feelings and much more. Classes are for 4-11 year olds. Monthly parent support groups provided.

GROUPS ARE SMALL SPACES ARE LIMITED CLASSES IN CROYDON For more details call 07591 205646 or email enquiries@artofgrowthcentre.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

LICKALIX, Britians favourite organic real whole fruit ice lolly launches brand new and unique food concept - Baby Cübes, to their portfolio

Festival farm on the

Whilst minimising the packaging waste of traditional fruit puree brands, Baby Cübes are 100% baby grade organic pureed fruit or vegetables cübes that locks in the fruity goodness and nutrients.

As I have a 9-month-old baby I thought we would give them a try in our own home. Little baby Mordekai loved his fruity treat and gives full thumbs up.

LICKALIX Baby Cübes can be used on their own or added to things like yoghurt, porridge, pancakes and are vailable in two vegetable and two fruit flavours Baby Cübes retail for £4.99 from Ocado.

Panicking about returning to work!

Looking for a more flexible role, or are you wondering about a in change career?

24th July to 3rd September 2018 godstonefarm.co.uk

01883 742546

Banstead based, Career Coach and HR specialist, Fay Wallis can help.

Career Coaching gives you time and space to think through and find solutions to whatever career issue you are facing. Fay can give you practical support with getting your next role through CV writing, interview coaching and guidance with your job search strategy. She also helps many parents think through whether or not they would like to change career, to have more flexibility and time with their children.

Visit www.brightskyhr.com to learn more about Career Coaching with Fay and to book a free 30-minute call (to talk through the different options available).

Enjoy being someone else this summer with summer dressing up and games at Claremont Landscape Garden, Dapdune Wharf, and outdoor theatre at Hatchlands Park, Morden Hall Park, Polesden Lacey and Winkworth Arboretum

Prep school located in Purley and South Croydon for Girls and Boys aged 2-13 Now accepting applications for September 2019.

Limited spaces available for September 2018.

Contact admissions@cumnorhouse.com 020 8 645 2614 | cumnorhouse.com

familiesonline.co.uk

#nationaltrust

nationaltrust.org.uk

© National Trust 2018. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846.

Photography © National Trust Images\NT/Derek Croucher.

Families London Surrey Borders 5

School holidays…so what are my childcare options? Manjit Shah, Director of Buttons Nanny Agency For working parents, a child being at school for the duration of the day means that their childcare is covered. However, the dilemma for a lot of parents is what to do during the school holidays – who will care for the kids? Childcare options can range from being relatively cheap, to ending up being a costly affair. There are a number of options available to parents: Grandparents/family This is a time when families step in and help out where they can. It’s a great opportunity for family members, in particular grandparents to spend quality time with the grandkids. It’s a cost-effective option for many families and a popular option for many.

Hiring a temporary nanny In recent years, more parents are opting for paid 1-2-1 childcare at home through the means of hiring a temporary nanny during the holidays. As with a permanent nanny, families would still meet and interview nannies prior to offering them the role. Using a professional nanny agency who have interviewed and vetted the nannies fully, ensures that families are meeting with high calibre, childcare professionals. Nannies would care for the children at the family’s home, take the children out on day trips, take the children to any of their sports activities during the week etc.

Nannies would cook and prepare the children’s meals as well ensure that the home is tidy and

well maintained. Nannies allow parents the flexibility of arranging childcare to their specific needs.

School holiday activity camps The concept of holiday camps originates from the US, however tend to be more day camps rather than overnight stays. Summer camps can be either on a specific topic e.g. science camp, football camp etc or a generic camp which covers a range of activities during the day. Lunch is usually provided in the price.

They allow children the opportunity to meet with other kids on a daily basis plus allows them to learn new skills. It’s worth researching which camps are operating in your local area or speaking to other parents if they have any recommendations.

Childminders Local childminders are a huge asset and allow parents to drop off their children to a childminder and know that their child will be fully entertained. They provide all activities and work to a high standard ensuring that the children are doing age based activities, developing their skills. You can view all the registered childminders from your Local Authority website. Childminders do get booked up fast as the number of spaces available are limited, so it’s worth doing your research early.

A week of the holidays that students will talk about all year!

Stagecoach Performing Arts offers summer holiday theatre workshops which are an amazing opportunity to put on a show in a week!

Students will sing, dance and act their way through 5 days of fun-filled classes, and work towards a big stage production at the end of the workshop.

There are no hidden costs, and costumes will be provided. The performance is FREE to all friends and family.

No experience is required, and children do not have to have attended Stagecoach before.

All of our teachers are DBS checked and are experienced in working with this age group to provide a fun-filled week learning new skills and making friends.

Students are divided into age appropriate groups to work together on the performance.

Prices may vary, but sibling discounts apply, and some schools accept childcare vouchers.

Visit www.stagecoach.co.uk to check your local Stagecoach school location using your postcode.

www.buttonsnannyagency.com

Specialising in Baby Swimming, Pre-school Swimmers and Toddlers • Warm pools • Small classes Call 0208 947 2149 or email info@waterlifeswimschool.com @Waterlifeswim Waterlife Swimschool_Flyer2018-A5.indd 1

6 Families London Surrey Borders

14/05/2018 12:39

familiesonline.co.uk

How to seize the summer with Explore Learning

The 11+ Holiday Learning Club

The summer holidays are a great time for families to spend time together. However, it can also be a time when children forget some of the skills they have mastered at school. Miss Evans, a year 6 teacher, stated “Teachers often find that children begin the new school year having forgotten key skills. It is important that children have opportunities over the summer break to continue to develop their abilities.”

The 11+ Holiday Learning Club, is a unique holiday club for BOYS and GIRLS intending to sit the 11+ examinations for entry into grammar and selective independent schools.

Here are some ideas from Charlotte Gater, Head of Curriculum at Explore Learning, on how to seize the summer.

Play some games

Start a blog

Give your child a little note book to jots ideas down whilst you are out and about, then write up what you’ve done. Take lots of pictures as these are a great tool to help children who find writing tricky. Encourage them to describe what is happening in the picture to get their creativity flowing.

Send a postcard

Let your friends and family know what you’ve been up to. They’re only short so are a wonderful way to get a bit of writing going during the holidays. If your child is reluctant to write, then why not try a postcard app like ‘By Post’? They can take their own pictures to make into postcards and type their message.

Read, read and read some more

Pop a book in your bag so you can use this when travelling on days out. We will be uploading weekly activities that you can

complete with your child to help keep them engaged with what they are reading. Visit explorelearning.co.uk/summer to find out more and download your first activity!

These are great for so many reasons, from developing language to improving memory skills. Needs some new games? Have a scavenger hunt in local charity shops to see who in the family can find the best game.

Tuition

To keep your children progressing over the summer, a tuition centre is a great option.

Prevent the battle ground of getting children to do work at home and get them along to a tuition centre where there are lots of other children getting involved.

Explore Learning offers free taster sessions, so get in touch today by calling 033 01243802.

Explore Learning is offering a saving of £50 to the first 65 members who join between 11 July and 11 August 2018.

Visit www.explorelearning.co.uk/ offer. T&Cs apply.

AGES 4-14 Voted no.1

PRIVATE TUITION CENTRE in the UK

With a huge range of courses and programmes mapped to the school curriculum, our centres are an environment where children of all abilities thrive. Of course we believe that maths and English are extremely important, but in addition to that we are truly passionate about inspiring a generation of ‘fearless learners’; children who can excel in the classroom, be confident in exams and are ready to tackle anything their future may hold.

For more information visit

explorelearning.co.uk or call 033 0124 3802

Your nearest centres are in

Call 0208 064 1011 for more information, or to book please visit www.holidaylearningclub.com

Wild Explorers Holiday Club Give your child a summer to remember at Surrey Wildlife Trust’s fantastic holiday club!

Children can let out their wild side and explore the wonderful woodland habitats within the Trust’s private nature reserve at Nower Wood, near Leatherhead.

The days are jam-packed with outdoor activities like shelter building, fire lighting, orienteering, minibeast hunting and pond dipping.

Children will unearth the rich wildlife and history of the ancient woodland and learn exciting new skills and take part in plenty of games and creative projects during the week.

To book your place, visit www. surreywildlifetrust.org/holiday-club

MORE THAN JUST

MATHS AND ENGLISH Find out how we can help your child

PROGRESS

Independently proven results.

Since 2001 over 200,000 children have excelled academically, reached their potential and achieved the best possible results with Explore Learning.

FREE TRIAL SESSION !

Your child will benefit from a structured personalised learning programme with tutor support and fun physical activities during the summer holidays. Book for 1, 2, or 3 weeks.

Addiscombe, Epsom, Merton, North Cheam, Purley and Wallington.

BE EXAM READY

Is your child preparing to sit the 11 Plus, a local entrance exam, the SATs or an end of term test?

CONFIDENCE

Confidence is the first step on a child’s journey to success.

A FEARLESS FUTURE

Supporting children to succeed in school and beyond.

EducationInvestor

Maths

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Problem solving

English

Reading

Spelling

Comprehension

Awards 2016

Families London Surrey Borders 7

Plastic free July

‘’There are over 150 million tonnes of plastic in the world’s oceans and every year one million birds and over 100,000 sea mammals die from eating and getting tangled in plastic waste.’’

Blue Planet 2

Take the challenge at Plastic free July As of May 2018, the current world population is 7.6 billion The current estimate of fish in the sea is TWENTY BILLION fish, and by 2050 it is estimated that there will be more plastic than fish in the sea.

Plastic straws – do we really need them?

This is a serious situation, so why do we use plastic and how can we change ways? Joining The actual figure is debated, but recent claims estimate 8.5bn plastic straws are thrown away the challenge is quite simple...choose to in the UK every year. So, can we really justify refuse single-use plastic during July. their use?

Plastic Free July aims to raise awareness Taking up to 200 years to break down they of the problems with single-use disposable plastic and challenges people to do cause havoc among our marine life. The key something about it. thing to remember is that plastic doesn’t decompose. It just breaks down into really You’ll be joining millions of people from 159 small bits of plastic, known as microplastics. countries world-wide in making a difference.

These tiny particles are then eaten by sea Join here - www.plasticfreejuly.org beasts and birds and enter the food chain, causing a direct impact on our own health, and that of our children.

With supermarkets giants like Sainsbury selling 25 paper straws at £2, you really do have other options. It is only a matter of knowing what to look for and where to find it.

BPA - it’s dirty little secret Whilst we are talking about plastic let’s talk about BPA and the impact it is leaving on our children.

BPA, or Bisphenol A is a chemical often used in containers that store food and beverages. Some of the problems caused by BPA are: • • • • • •

8 Families London Surrey Borders

Structural damage to your brain Increased fat formation and risk of obesity Altered immune function Changes in gender-specific behaviour, and abnormal sexual behaviour Stimulation of prostate cancer cells Increased prostate size and decreased sperm production

David Attenborough – our generations true hero BBC naturalist, Sir David Attenborough has brought the dire situation to the forefront of people’s hearts through his recent series, Blue Planet 2. Even the Queen has declared war on plastic.

The series was named the most watched show of 2017, with one episode attracting an official rating of 17m.

So, if nothing else, one simple thing that we as parents can do, is sit with our children and watch this eye-opening documentary.

You can purchase Blue Planet 2 Boxset from online retailers, or from YouTube from £10.99

A recent study done by the University of Exerter, has found that almost 90 per cent of teenagers have this genderbending chemical in their bodies, and only last year the European Chemicals Agency reclassified BPA as a substance of ‘very high concern’ because of its ‘probable serious effects’ on human health.

So, if the need to stop the use of single use plastic because of the drastic impact it is having on our environment it is not enough, we need to change our ways because of the drastic impact it is having on our children. familiesonline.co.uk

ZSL London Zoo joins the fight on the war on plastic

Wet Wipes

Supervillain Plastico, has been spotted at ZSL London Zoo’s new art installation highlighting perils of plastic pollution. London-based artist and architect Nick Wood has created a building made of 15,000 discarded singleuse bottles collected from London and its waterways.

Know your facts, know your options!

Parents are in outrage as government vows to get rid of wipes within 25 years, but the truth is wet wipes contain plastic which slowly break down into microplastics that are then ingested by marine life and are the cause of 93% of sewage blocks in the UK. But let’s face it, there is a daily emergency clean up situation that is the reason why wet wipes are an essential in the parenting ‘magic hack bag.

However, as awareness grows different products have entered the market that allow us parents to keep our favourite hack bag accessory, whist saving the planet at the same time – Double Win.

The structure will house information about plastic pollution and the small steps everyone can take to help tackle the growing issue. Dubbed the Space of Waste, the structure will be home to environmental supervillain Plastico, who will be making regular appearances throughout the summer as the Superhero Academy launches at ZSL London Zoo this summer.

To join the Superhero Academy book online www.zsl.org/superheroes WIN a family ticket to at ZSL London Zoo by visiting out Facebook page on www. facebook.com/FamiliesLSBMag. Just like and share our pinned post.

Human impact on animals - new category for RSPCA Young Photographer Awards

Biodegradable Wipes Brands • • •

In recognition of the impact to our addiction to plastic, and to help raise awareness, for the first time a category exploring ‘The Human Impact on Animals’ will be included in the RSPCA’s photography competition for under 19s

Childs Farm Biodegradable Wipes Jackson Reece Biodegradable Wipes Kit & Kin Biodegradable Wipes and NAPPIES

All direct from the manufacturer or online retails but Tesco, Sainsbury, Waitrose, Ocado, ASDA, Morrisons and Boots should stock at least one.

Washable and Reusable Wet Wipes: Babipur offer parents a range of washable bamboo wipes that wipes are soft, eco-friendly and kind on your baby’s skin as well as the planet. www. babipur.co.uk Cheeki Wipes: the all-in-one kit to care for the baby’s bottom that uses essential oils to care for baby’s delicate skin and ensures good hygiene. Available in a range of materials, textures and colours, each perfect for its own cleaning need: www.cheekywipes.com Wet wipe in a bottle: FreshX is a fresh new ECO-friendly alternative to pre-moistened flushable wipes that transforms your toilet tissue with a simple Spritz into a moist, soothing and refreshing wipe. FreshX Tissue Spritz with botanicals are available from Sainsbury.

WIN!

Naturalist, presenter and judge Chris Packham said: “The recent phenomenal rise in awareness of the terrible effects of plastic and other pollution on animal life is reflected in the RSPCA Young Photographer Awards’ new competition category showing the human impact on animals’’ Winners will be presented with their prizes at an awards ceremony hosted by Chris Packham held at the Tower of London in December. The closing date is 4pm on Friday 17 August. Entrants can submit their images online at: www.rspca.org.uk/ypa/18

Morrisons takes lead in tackling the plastic crisis by encouraging customers to bring their own Tupperware Already an industry leader in the war on single use plastics, supermarket giant has announced they will allow customers to use their own containers for meat and fish from the Morrisons’ Market Street Butcher and Fishmonger counters The new policy is part of a number of measures the supermarket is taking to reduce plastic pollution, in addition to its commitment to make all its own-brand plastic packaging reusable, recyclable or compostable by no later than 2025.

How long until it’s decomposed?

Glass 4000 years familiesonline.co.uk

Plastics Sometimes never

Drink cans 10-20 years

Paper & Cardboard 1 - 2 months

Pastic bags 10-20 years Families London Surrey Borders 9

Top tips on how to host a plastic free birthday party

PARTY NEWSBOARD Families favourite gift, venue and entertainer ideas We are mad for MAD Academy parties MAD Parties cater for babies of 3 months, toddlers, and young children and are all about singing and dancing. Let MAD Academy make your birthday party sparkle!

With the wrapping paper, balloons and glitter galore, a child’s birthday party can be an ecological time bomb in the making. However, with a little research and ethical shopping it is possible to give your child that party they will always remember, and care for the environment at the same time.

Contact Alison, from MAD Academy Croydon on alison. storey@madacademy.com for a party your little one will always remember.

Invitations The wonderful world of the world wide web has opened the way to paperless communication, so why not get creative using websites like Greenvelope.com and send out virtual invitation.

Party bags The prize of the party that can set your party apart from the rest. Fill your colourful paper bags with homemade fruit bars, packets of seeds or your favourite books.

Battersea Dogs & Cats Home Cats & Kittens - A Memory Game

Decorations

An essential in every child’s toys box and beautifully illustrated by Marcel George, Cats & Kittens: A Memory Game is a boxed card game where the aim is to match each feline to her adorable kitten.

Ditch the disposable plates, cups and cutlery. You can always find cheap crockery from your local charity shop or borrow from friends.

So, maybe there will be more washing up for you, but it will also teach children an important lesson about avoiding throwing away unnecessary waste.

If that is still too much hassle, use compostable, biodegradable party ware. You can always brighten up the party room with flowers, colourful fabrics and biodegradable balloons.

Food and drinks Fill the table with a rainbow of colour by providing healthy fruity snacks and homemade sandwiches and avoid unnecessary waste by preparing your food at home.

Serve your drinks in glass jugs that can keep being refilled and use compostable cups and plastic straw alternatives. We have even found some strawberry flavoured edible ones.

Part of the revenue from sales will go towards supporting the work of local charity, Battersea Dogs & Cats Home. £12.99 from www. laurenceking.com

Birthday Parties at Gymboree Play & Music Gymboree Play & Music, Cheam specialise in parties from 1 – 5 years old and offering a range of play parties, music parties and art parties there is sure to be a party to make your child’s birthday party

unforgettable at their fabulous site in Cheam Village. Visit www. gymboreeclasses.co.uk for more information.

The Big Book of Blue Author and illustrator, Yuval Zommer takes you on a journey through the Big Blue, telling tales of an underwater world that encourages excitement for reading and learning, The Big Book of the Blue is something that every child (and adult!) should read!

Packed with fascinating facts about all kinds of slippery, shimmery and surprising sea creatures, including sea turtles, whales, sharks, rays and seahorses for children aged 4+. An absolute must for any inquisitive young minds bookshelves.

The book is £12.95 and can be bought online and from all good bookshops.www. thamesandhudson.com

Bocketts Farm Party Packages Enjoy a fun packed day of farm fun with private animal handling session, optional tractor rides, private decorated party room, choice of menus, animal mask and balloon for each child. One adult free per child and optional farmyard cake, party bags and adult catering available.

Early booking advised, call

Families favourite party finds Strawberry flavoured edible straws - www.drinkstuff.com Bamboo Straws - www.mannbamboofiber.com Compostable partyware - www.littlecherry.co.uk Wooden Bunting and recycled party bags - www.ethicalkidz.co.uk Biodegradable gilt free glitter - www.ecoglitterfun.com

Gymboree Play and Music Cheam Sensory Baby Play Art Music

Banstead, Ewell, Claygate and Esher E: banstead.claygate@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01932 223309 Dorking, Fetcham, Walton on the Hill, Ashtead and South Epsom E: leatherhead.dorking@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 020 8432 0811

10 Families London Surrey Borders

Play & Learn Parties

TRY A FREE CLASS TODAY! 07990 761 259 cheam@gymboree-uk.com www.gymboreeclasses.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

the office on 01372 363764 for availability, or visit www. bockettsfarm.co.uk

mystery and find Henry and stop the dastardly developers from knocking down the park.

Monkey Music love to party

Hoakes Island retails for £10.99 from www.laurenceking.com

At Monkey Music each party is individually tailored to suit each separate occasion and always includes the birthday child’s favourite Monkey Music songs.

What better way to celebrate a special occasion than with music, party favourites, singing and dancing?

Banstead, and Claygate banstead.claygate@monkeymusic. co.uk Epsom, Dorking and Leatherhead emma.tina@monkeymusic.co.uk

Hoakes Island: A Fiendish Puzzle Adventure Aimed at ages 7-11, but fun for all the family Hoakes Island has been a favourite in our home over the last half term.

Readers must race against time to solve puzzles and clues as they travel around Hoakes Island using a map and a 3D magnifying glass.

Equipped with only a notebook, a hastily assembled collection of diary entries, puzzles and clues, you need to unravel the

Farm Yard Fun with Godstone Farm At Godstone Farm you can tailor our birthday package to suit your special little farm-goer. Pick ‘n’ Mix your options or opt for an all-inclusive farmyard party, either way celebrating a birthday with us means it’s one to remember.

A full days entry to the farm plus, we can offer tractor rides, animal holding, food and party bags – stress free for parents and actionpacked for the kids!

Visit www.godstonefarm.co.uk for more information.

Party down with the Hobblers of Hobbledown Hobblers know a thing or two about what makes a fantastic birthday party which is why they would love you to celebrate yours at Hobbledown.

Party packages start at £14.50 per child for Classic Parties and £22.50 per child for Deluxe Parties.

All parties include invitations and party feast and all day entry into Hobbledown for each of your guests and one adult free per paid

child.

Call 01372 235 125 or visit www. hobbledown.com/birthdays for more information.

Petra, a stunning picture book from rising star Marianna Coppo’s has been shortlisted for the 2018 4-11 Picture Book Awards An uplifting story that will charm parents and children alike, Petra is a mighty mountain that can’t be moved by wind or time. Or so we think, until we discover she is something even more astonishing, the ability to be anything…and what a message to send somebody their birthday.3+ The book is £6.99 and can be bought online and from all good bookshops.www. thamesandhudson.com

Take the stress out of your party with London’s number one children’s party venue Kidspace Preparing a party at home can be time consuming, stressful and expensive, so let Kidspace take away the strain of entertaining

kids in your own home by providing the party of a lifetime at London’s number one children’s party venue.

Go Karts, Climbing Zone (complete with beanstalk and medieval castle), Crazy Chef, Disco Diva Parties include invitations, party feast and invitations.

Call 01372 235 125 or visit www.kidspaceadventures. com/croydon/parties for more information.

Wild Year Book – Things to do outdoors through the seasons Just in time for summer explorations, the Wild Year Book is a great gift option for any child who has a love for the great outdoors.

Full of adventures, games and crafts to get you outdoors all the year-round, the Wild Year Book gives children a way to develop their imaginations, keep fit and let the wild world weave its magical spells around them.

You can purchase The Wild Year Book form online retailers like Amazon.com for £9.99.

Choose from:

• Laser Tag • Teddy Bear Workshop • Go Karts • Climbing Wall and more...

FIND US AT: 619 Purley Way, Croydon CR0 4RQ

www.kidspaceadventures.com

R E aDY , TeDDY , Go ...

teddy bear workshop parties now at hobbledown Suitable for ages 3+

“Simply put, Kidspace is the Rolls-Royce of children’s play areas.”

The Metro

familiesonline.co.uk

Visit www.hobbledown.com for prices and details

Families London Surrey Borders 11

What’s On

Before setting out please check details with the venue in case they have changed since we have gone to print ...and don’t forget to tell them you saw them in Families London-Surrey Borders!

Sun 26 & Mon 27 Aug Fast Action at this year’s Edenbridge and Oxsted Agricultural Showground Ardenrun Showground, Nr Lingfield, Surrey, RH7 6LL The Tigers Motorcycle Display Team and the Ultimate Battle between world champion BMXers, Trial riders and top free runners mean double thrills with stunt shows throughout the two days. Meet farmyard and exotic animals, the loveable Meerkats and pets – more close up animal encounters than almost anywhere in the region this bank holiday. Your community Show has Food, Flower and Craft marquees, tractors, huge equestrian section, live music, a working blacksmith, have-a-go activities including tunnel racing with ferrets, archery, fly fishing, meet the hounds, a junior bike obstacle course, rides, carousel and bring-your-dog classes. Children visit free with a paying adult. Reduced price advance tickets with fast pass online at www.edenbridge-show.co.uk.

Until Thurs 31 Aug London Bridge City Summer Festival This unmissable schedule of entertainment will take place at three distinctive locations, running from London Bridge to Tower Bridge.

Every Mon 1-3pm and Fri 10.30am12.30pm FREE Food Growing Drop-in Sessions Carshalton Community Allotment, Colston Avenue,SM5 2PW Enjoy the outdoors, meet other people, learn new skills, get a bit of exercise and take free fresh veg home. No booking needed.

Every Tues from 24 July – 28 Aug Beddington Park Drop-In Kids Club Beddington Park, SM6 7NN Each week in the park, a different drop-in craft and/or activity. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Tues 3-Sun 8 July RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, KT8 9AU The world’s largest annual flower show returns with a range of beautiful gardens, iconic horticulture and a vibrant array of shopping opportunities.

Throughout the year Inflatable fun time Priory Park Reigate, Memorial Park Redhill, Lady Neville recreation ground Banstead Inflatable fun time is an inflatable theme park that is a great day out and s perfect way for children to release their inner energy and get exercise and fresh air. Wristbands give you unlimited use on the inflatables on the day of purchase. The large inflatable is wristband only, however individual tickets can be bought for other attractions although.

Attractions like the motor boats, crazy gold and bumper cars have additional charges, and children must be under 1.5m. No adults allowed. In the school holidays there will be a sandpit and deck chairs for use free of in Redhill and Reigate.

Check out the Facebook page, Inflatable Fun Time or follow us on Twitter @inflatable1 for the latest information. 10.30am-5pm weather permitting.

Sat 14 July, 11am Butterflies with Malcolm Bridge Guided walks in Selsdon Woods Meet in Selsdon Wood car park, Old Farleigh Road Walks last around 2 hours and are suitable for families.

Mon 2 – Sun 8 July, 10am MGSO4 Epsom & Ewell Arts Festival An independent multi-arts festival with free and ticketed events at several venues in Epsom & Ewell.

Sat 14 July, 9am – 1pm Wallington Farmers Market Old Town Hall and Library Gardens, SM6 0NB Quality local produce direct from the producer.

Thurs 5 & 12 July 3.30pm-5pm Sutton by Sea Sutton-by-Sea Sutton Central Library, SM1 1EA Sand, deckchairs, rock outside the library. Come and help create a usable art installation.

Sat 14 July, Sat 11 Aug & Sat 8 Sep Reigate Caves Open Days Tunnel Road, Reigate RH2 9AY On these open days there is no need to book in advance, tours run every 20 minutes or so according to demand and availability of guides, just turn up, pay your entry fee and join the next tour.

Sat 7 July, 11am – 3pm (free) National Meadows Day Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD Discover the amazing plants and animals in our meadow as we celebrate National Meadows Day! Sat 7 - Sun 8 July, 12noon-4.30pm Carshalton on Sea Honeywood Museum A weekend of seaside themed fun with traditional sideshows, sand pits, children’s magic shows and more!

Sat 11- Sun 12 July RHS London Plant and Art Fair RHS Lindley (SW1P 2QW) & RHS Lawrence Hall (SW1P 2QD) A selection of striking botanical art from around the world, capturing the beauty of horticulture through art alongside a variety of seasonal plants and bulbs.

Sat 14 July, 10.30qm – 4pm Ewell Village Fair Ewell Castle Prep School There will also be a variety of sideshows and stalls, a baking competition, pony rides, bouncy castle, Punch and Judy and lots more to keep everyone entertained.

Tue 17 Jul, 11am–12.30pm NAA Trees in poetry walk Claremont Landscape Garden, KT10 9JG

12 Families London Surrey Borders

Thurs 19 July, 9pm Bats & Moths’ with Malcolm Bridge - Guided walks in Selsdon Woods Meet in Selsdon Wood car park, Old Farleigh Road Walks last around 2 hours and are suitable for families.

21 July, 12-4pm Friends of Millers Pond Summer Fayre Millers Pond - Shirley Way, Croydon Fri 20 July, & Friday 17 Aug, 2pm4pm Tours at Little Holland House Little Holland House 40 Beeches Avenue, SM5 3LW A chance to make yourself at home and spend time in the extraordinary decorative interior of the house.

Discover some of the sources that inspired Frank Dickinson’s creativity. £6.50 Please pre-book on 020 8770 4297 Sat 12 Aug, 9am – 1pm Wallington Farmers Market Old Town Hall and Library Gardens, SM6 0NB Quality local produce direct from the producer

ENJOY FREE RANGE FAMILY FUN ON THE FARM

THIS SUMMER!

Open daily 10am – 5.30pm Summer Fun on the Farm Bocketts Farm, KT22 9BS Enjoy a great day out at Bocketts Farm this summer with a full programme of fun activities! Daily activities include pony rides, tractor rides, gold panning, animal handling, goat milking and the famous pig racing. In addition, the Small Animal Village and Big Animal Barn are open where you can meet and feed all of the friendly farm animals. Plus, don’t miss the brilliant Water Wars Splash Zone, which involves launching water filled balloons at your opponent’s station – great fun for all ages! With 2 large indoor play barns, trampolines, young driver’s area, sandpits, pedal go-karts, panning for gold, treehouse towers and 2 giant jumping pillows, there’s plenty to keep the whole family amused. See entry discount voucher opposite. www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

Join our friendly guide Hilary to find out about the links between trees and poetry.

Giant indoor play barn Panning for gold

Friendly farm animals

Water Wars splash zone Go-karts

Pony rides

PLUS

A full programme of fun farm activities including pony rides, goat milking, pig racing and much more!

D AR AW WI NN ING !

www.bockettsfarm.co.uk #

SPECIAL

OFFER

£1 OFF full price farm entry per person* Valid from 1st July - 26th August 2018.

Only with this voucher (*maximum of 5 people).

FM

familiesonline.co.uk

SUMMER HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES Mon 23 Jul – Mon 3 Sep, 10am-2pm Nature’s harvest trail at Box Hill Marvel at nature’s bounty on this school holiday trail, suitable for ages 2+. £1 suggested donation Sun 29 July Rustic Sunday The Rural Life Centre, Farnham, GU10 2DL A whole range of traditional countryside skills will be on show and children will have a chance to explore a large doll’s house, as well as take a ride on the steam train.

Music and food also feature on the menu.

Mon 30 July 11am-2pm Barefoot Bear Hunt Sutton Ecology Centre, SM5 3NY We’re going on a bear hunt - with our socks off!! Going barefoot is great fun, and it’s thought to stimulate your heart and boost your immune system! Come prepared for messy feet! £4.50 .2-7yrs. Drop in.

Mon 16 July – Mon 3 Sept, 10am – 6pm Trail running 10am – 5pm 50 Days of Summer at Birdworld Birdworld, Farnham, GU10 4LD Join Birdworld this holiday for their 50 days of Summer Fun to celebrate their 50th Anniversary year!

Sat 21 July – Sun 2 Sept Inventions & Illusions Honeywood Museum, SM5 3NX This Summer we are mesmerised by the Victorian & Edwardian era. Get into character and wear one of our historic costumes & travel back in time to find all the inventions around the house using the trail.

Fri 27 July & Fri 3, 10, 17, 24, and 31 Aug, 3pm-3.30pm Illusion Afternoon Craft Honeywood Museum, SM5 3NX Fascinate your friends & family by making your very own optical illusion with our volunteers at Honeywood Museum. Pre-booking required Sat 28 & Sun 29 July,10am – 4pm Carshalton Lavender Annual Harvest Pick bunches of lavender to take home.

Mon 13 & Tues 14 Aug, 11am-2pm.

Weird Wildlife!

Sutton Ecology Centre, SM5 3NY Sometimes nature is beautiful – but sometimes it’s just plain weird!!

Come and meet some of nature’s weirder creatures including stick and leaf insects. Includes trail, minibeast hunt and craft. £4.50. 3yrs+. Drop in Sat 4 & Sun 5 August Castle Canines Hever Castle, Kent, TN8 7NG It’s all about the pooches with a weekend dedicated to your fourlegged friends with stalls and prizes for top dogs. The paw-fect weekend for your pooch Tues 7 Aug. 10.30am-12noon & 1.30pm-3pm.

The Very Curious Caterpillar Adventure Sutton Ecology Centre, SM5 3NY Join Curious the Caterpillar on an adventure around Sutton Ecology Centre as he meets his puppet friends Lucy Ladybird, Berty Butterfly, Bella Bee and more £5.50.

3yrs.

Mon 13 – Fri 17 Aug, 11am - 4pm (the park is open from 10am - 6pm Minibeast Safari Week at Birdworld Birdworld, Farnham, GU10 4LD Join Birdworld to celebrate Minibeast Safari Week and raise awareness of the importance of invertebrate life in ecosystems and to encourage positive behaviours towards invertebrates!

Wed 15 Aug, 2pm Mini-Beast Hunt Meet in Selsdon Wood car park, Old Farleigh Road Walks last around 2 hours and are suitable for families Wed 29 & Thurs 30 Aug, 11am to 12pm and 2pm to 3pm Bourne Hall Museum Kids Club Cave Painting Bourne Hall Museum, KT17 1UF Discover how and why these paintings were created. Then by flickering light try to create your own cave paintings. £5 per child.

Booking required Mon 27 Aug, 10.30am-8.00pm Carshalton Environmental Fair Carshalton Park, SM5 3DD Families can come down for a days’ worth of great entertainment with 3 solar stages with live music,150+ stalls selling different crafts, tasty

SUNDAY 26th & MONDAY 27th AUGUST

LINGFIELD, SURREY RH7 6LL (6 MILES SOUTH OF J6, M25)

Under 16s FREE with an adult ticket holder  Tigers Motorcycle Display Team  Pony Club Mounted Games  World Champ BMX Ultimate Battle  Vintage Cars  Tunnel Racing - Ferrets vs Children  Flower and Dog Shows  Top Showjumping  Food & Craft Marquees  Meet the Meerkats  Huge Livestock Section

FAST TRACK ENTRY, REDUCED PRICE ADVANCE TICKETS and MEMBERSHIP PACKAGES with entry to exclusive Members’ Enclosure.

www.edenbridge-show.co.uk REGISTERED CHARITY NO. 1102127

familiesonline.co.uk

4, 5, 11 & 12 Aug The Loxwood Joust Loxwood Meadow, just off the B2133 between Wisborough Green and Loxwood.

Harken to the clash of steel on steel, as mighty knights’ fight their battles, witness magnificent fully armoured jousting knights earn their honour and valour and let wandering storytellers, graceful dancers, entertainers and soaring live music captivate your senses. Learn from apothecaries and woodland faeries, experience hand fasting ceremonies and barter with the traders in the mediaeval market place. Revel in the Masked Executioner’s gory stories, beware the den of Witches, and will havea-go archery, sword school or pelt the peasant be the young knights and princesses favourite? Then feast at the mediaeval lunchtime banquet, before partaking in a chain-mailing, copper bowl making or blacksmithing workshop This is a day out like no other! food and real ale. Under 12’s free 31 Aug - 2 Sep Handmade & Homegrown Festival Hever Castle, Kent, TN8 7NG Celebrate all things handmade and homegrown in the heart of the glorious Kent countryside.

Sat 15 September Wildflowers Hobbledown, KT19 8PT Hobbledown’s festival of sound and colour, including paint throwing extravaganza. £15.50 for adults. £13.50 children. Under 2s free.

Every Wed and Fri, 10am – 11.30am or 1.30pm – 3pm Trails and Tales with Gatton Park Enjoy your favourite children’s book classics and go for a walk in the park to bring the story to life. Return to create artwork linked to the story. £7.50 per child. 2 – 4 yrs.

Summer fun for families at Hatchlands Park, GU4 7RT With its acres of parkland Hatchlands Park is the perfect spot to enjoy a run-around and a picnic in the sunshine. Explore the children’s treehouse or get to grips with hand-crafted willow tunnels, domes, balance beams, sculptures and a totem pole. We’ve even got wood piles for den building.

British Wildlife Centre Summer is here and at the British Wildlife Centre the trees and shrubs lend a beautiful backdrop to the wonderful wild species that live there. It’s an exciting time as this is when the season’s new cubs, kittens and calves start to venture out and can be seen by visitors.

Claremont Landscape Garden, KT10 9JG Mon 23 Jul–Fri 3 Aug, 10am–5pm Amphibian trail Learn all about amphibians and where they live. NAA plus 50p per trail.

Wed 25 Jul and 8, 22 Aug, 1.30–2.30pm Classic story telling Enjoy classic Victorian animal stories. Join us for an afternoon of classic Victorian animal stories brought to life by our friendly story teller Emma Smyth. NAA plus £3 per child for story telling Sat 4–Fri 17 Aug, 10am–5pm Mammal trail Go on an adventure and follow the harvest mouse to see if you can find out about mammals on our sensory trail. NAA plus 50p per trail.

Mon 6–Fri 10 Aug, 11am–1pm Animal craft workshops Learn about the many animals that live in the Surrey countryside with a selection of different crafts. NAA plus £1.50 per craft.

Tue 7 and Thu 9, Tue 14 and Thu 16 Aug, 11am–1 and 2–4pm Boating See Claremont from a new viewpoint and enjoy rowing one of our traditional boats, Charlotte and Victoria, on the lake. NAA plus £5 for 20 minutes.

Sat 18 Aug–Sun 2 Sep, 10am–5pm Creepy crawly fantastic beasts Creepy crawly fantastic beasts trail.

We have hidden some bugs in the garden, how many can you find?

NAA plus 50p per trail.

21 July – 27 Aug Knights & Princesses School Hever Castle & Gardens, Kent, TN8 7NG This summer children can put on their full dress and join in a training session, experiencing what it was like to grow up and serve in a royal household in medieval times.

Knights will learn how to prepare and protect their armour and discover the best way to arm and disarm their master before battle.

Princesses are shown the correct way to give a proper and perfect curtsey.

At the end of each session, children take part in a fun Have a Go Jousting activity before receiving their ‘Knight School Certificate’ and being officiated as knights and princesses of Hever. www.hevercastle.co.uk Families London Surrey Borders 13

From the moment you enter Spectrum get set for a day of fun, thrills and excitement, with ice skating, ten pin bowling, four pools including a leisure pool, a soft play area, indoor climbing wall, scalextric track, gym, sports arena and aerobics studio all under one roof.

It’s great value family tickets, with the option to book activity tickets up to 2 weeks in advance and free parking makes it affordable too!

All activities are subject to availability so it’s advisable to take up that advance booking option! www.guildfordspectrum.co.uk Tue 21 Aug, 11am–12.30pm NAA Summer tree walk Join our friendly guide to discover how beautiful Claremont looks in high summer.

Polesden Lacey, RH5 6BD Sat 21 Jul – Fri 31 Aug Summer family fun Get creative and make a different craft every week of the summer holidays in our marquee on the lawn.

Enjoy giant games in the orchard, our newly refurbished natural play area and picnic spots with pictureperfect views. £5 for up to 5 players

Winkworth’s six weeks of summer fun, GU8 4AD Enjoy the outdoors and have fun with our children’s activities and trails throughout the summer holiday.

Sat 14–Sun 15 Jul, Big Camp Camping including special activities with our wildlife expert Jonnie. See nationaltrust.org.uk/ winkwortharboretum

Sat 14, 21, 28 Jul & Every Wed & Sat in Aug, times dependent on dusk, 2 hours Bat walks Explore the gardens and estate with rangers and bat detectors.

Adult £8, Child £4. B - 01372 452048

Sat 14 Jul, 8.45pm−10.45pm Bat walk Explore the Arboretum with our bat expert to see if you can track down our brilliant bats. Adult £10, Child £5.

Sun 12 Aug 11am-1pm Summer butterfly walk Join our rangers on a walk across the estate to spot the best of summer wildlife, including butterflies. Adult £5 Child £3. B -01372 452048.

Mon 6, 13, 20, and 27 Aug, 1.30pm−2.30pm Teddy bears’ picnic and storytelling Fun-filled teddy bears’ picnic featuring storytelling and songs with Emma to delight young and old.

Please bring a picnic. NAA plus Child £3, accompanying adults free.

OUTDOOR CINEMA – A SUMMER MUST

Sat 11 Aug, 11am–4.30pm Paws for a Walk Join us and Hearing Dogs for Deaf People for a walk around the Arboretum.

Sat 25 Aug, 7.45pm−9.45pm Bat walk Explore the Arboretum with our bat expert to see if you can track down our brilliant bats. Adult £10, Child £5.

Sun 2 Sep,11am−4pm Live Local, Love Winkworth 9 Come and explore the National Trust’s only arboretum for free. Our ninth annual community day packed full of events. Live music, falconry displays, archery, wood carving, crafts, family activities and much more.

Sun 22 July Outdoor Children’s Theatre Returns to the Priory Park, Reigate Spend the afternoon in Priory Park, Reigate, with some exciting children’s theatre. Why not bring along a picnic and enjoy a relaxing family event? To purchase tickets, call the Box Office on 01737 276500 or book online at www. harlequintheatre.co.uk. running from July to Sep. Luna Kids Cinema Nearest to you Priory Park, Reigate, Dulwich Park, and Hampton Court Palace.

This Summer Luna Cinema has launched an outdoor cinema for kids, screenings of family-friendly classics such as The Lion King and Aladdin, alongside this year’s blockbusters including Paddington 2, Spider-Man: Homecoming as well as musical phenomenon The Greatest Showman and first ever outdoor screenings of The Gruffalo, Room on the Broom and Stick Man. Visit www. lunakidscinema.com to book.

New rides at Paultons Park’s Peppa Pig World this summer

WIN!

Paultons Park is a great value family day out with over 70 wonderful rides and attractions all set within 140 acres of the beautiful New Forest National Park. Paultons is home to the world’s first and UK exclusive Peppa Pig World and it recently two new rides, The Queen’s Flying Coach Ride and Grampy Rabbit’s Sailing Club.

Also new for 2018 is Little Africa, the Park’s own little corner of Africa where you can discover the amazing animals and birds of the savannah.

Don’t forget to discover Lost Kingdom, a dinosaur adventure featuring world class family rollercoasters, life-like animatronic dinosaurs, Jurassic themed family rides and a chance to come face to face with ‘living’, walk Dinosaurs! For further information see www.paultonspark.co.uk and visit www.facebook.com/FamiliesLSBMag for details on how to win a family ticket to Paultons Park to enjoy this summer. Enter by 31 July.

14 Families London Surrey Borders

Wed 8 Aug – Sun 2 Sep London’s Free Open-Air Theatre at the Scoop, SE1 2DB London’s best open-air theatre returns to The Scoop for its 15th year this summer with new adaptations of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and King Arthur, offering unforgettable and totally accessible experiences in the heart of the city – free of charge. www.freeopenairtheatre.org for more information Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House, WC2R 1LA This stunning central London openair cinema returns for a fortnight this August. All films in this year’s festival line-up reflect on the theme of ‘dreams, fantasies, nocturnes and reveries’. Amongst many others some of the all-time favourites showing are the 1959 Disney’s classic of Sleeping Beauty, The Labyrinth and the Wizard of Oz. visit www. somersethouse.org.uk to see the full program.

Silent Summer Screening Silent Summer Screenings brings you The Greatest Showman, Grease, Dirty Dancing, Pretty Woman, but book quickly, some shows are already fully booked.

Screenings in Ashtead, Banstead, Croydon, Dorking, Kingston, Leatherhead, Mitchem, Oxsted, Purly, Redhill and Sutton. Visit www. silentsummerscreenings.com to book your tickets.

Outdoor Cinema with the National Trust Our Families Favourite has to be Hatchlands Park, who have a

summer programme of outdoor theatre specially for families. Beauty and the Beast, Peter Pan and Back to the Future just to name a few.

Fri 3 Aug-Mon 6 Aug Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD The Wind in the Willows Perfect for the whole family, these performances will have you up on your feet as you follow the actors as they travel through our rose garden on their adventures.

Fri 17 Aug, The Tempest Bring along a picnic and settle down amongst the roses. The Lord Chamblerlain’s Men invite you to join them this summer for Shakespeare’s spellbinding masterpiece, The Tempest.

Claremont Landscape Garden, KT10 9JG Fri 20 Jul The Reluctant Dragon Quantum Theatre Company perform this child friendly tale by Kenneth Grahame, the author of The Wind in the Willows.

Winkworth Arboretum, GU8 4AD Sat 4 Aug and Sun 5 Aug, 2.30pm The Herald Players present Treasure Island After an afternoon of swashbuckling activities join Jim the cabin boy on his daring treasure hunt in this new and lively adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s adventurous tale. All shows need to be booked - For all show times, and prices please visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Holiday fun and festival vibes for all the family at Godstone Farm There’s even more to do on a summer day out with extra activities and entertainment. Visit messy play, dance with our mascots at the farm disco and be inspired by our storytellers. Look out for animal antics and garden games as well delicious food and drink to keep you refuelled through all the excitement!

We’re hoping for sandals rather than wellies, but mud doesn’t matter with our rainy day guarantee!* See our website for *Terms & Conditions. wwwgodstonefarm.co.uk

‘Ingenious’ Daily Mail

Illustrations © 1989 Helen Oxenbury from We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen

Guildford Spectrum

Until 2 September BOOK TODAY bearhuntlive.com

familiesonline.co.uk

fun for all the family

at guildford spectrum leisure complex

book your tickets in advance! swimming ice skating tenpin bowling soft play

Book up to two weeks in advance at www.guildfordspectrum.co.uk

HEV-Jousting-2018-Families-87x130-AW.indd 1

A FESTIVAL OF MEDIAEVAL MAYHEM 4, 5, 11 & 12 AUGUST 2018 10AM-6PM W. SUSSEX, RH14 0AL

20/04/2018 13:26

ADVANCE TICKET OFFER ADULTS £13.00 (GATE £16.00) CHILD £7.00 (GATE £8) (4-14) UNDER 4’S GO FREE FREE CAR PARKING

2 WEEKENDS OF MEDIAEVAL MAYHEM

FULL CONTACT JOUSTING, THUNDEROUS BATTLES, (WITH FULLY ARMOURED KNIGHTS), REAL ALES AND PIG ROAST, MEDIAEVAL BANQUETS, MEDIAEVAL MARKET, CHILDREN’S KINGDOM, HAVE-A-GO-ARCHERY, HAVE-A-GO-JOUSTING, PELT THE PEASANT, JESTERS, WITCHES,, WANDERING MINSTRELS, MEDIAEVAL BAEBES CONCERTS, AND MUCH MUCH MORE . . .

MORE INFO AND ADVANCE TICKETS FROM

LOXWOODJOUST.CO.UK familiesonline.co.uk

OPEN DAILY: 10am-5pm During school holidays & weekends (weather permitting) *Terms and conditions apply. Valid on day of purchase only, non-refundable.

Height Limit 1.5m. Sorry no adults.

Buy a wristband* for unlimited use on the inf latables.

thematthewsorganisationltd@gmail.com

Families London Surrey Borders 15

HO WO LIDA RKS Y HO P

SUMMER WORKSHOPS Make friends and build confidence at our theatre workshops

CHEAM & WORCESTER PARK

30 July - 3 August; St Andrews Church, Cheam (SM2 7HF)

stagecoach.co.uk/cheamandworcesterpark 020 8773 4242

COULSDON & CATERHAM

30 July - 3 August; Woodcote High School stagecoach.co.uk/coulsdon

0345 078 0805

CROYDON

30 July - 3 August; Croydon High School stagecoach.co.uk/croydon 0845 265 7083

16 Families London Surrey Borders

EPSOM

13-16 August; Bourne Hall

stagecoach.co.uk/epsom

01737 669 504

SUTTON

6 -10 August; Carshalton High School for Girls stagecoach.co.uk/sutton 01372 740284

SHIRLEY

30 July - 3 August; Shirley High School stagecoach.co.uk/shirley 020 8949 1116

familiesonline.co.uk

Stagecoach Performing Arts Schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals.

Stagecoach is a registered trademark of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Ltd.

Non-Stagecoach students welcome!